URGENT UPDATE: The Taliban will shower Kabul with flowers from helicopters on August 15, 2025, to commemorate the fourth anniversary of their return to power in Afghanistan. This unique celebration is set to feature colorful aerial displays performed by Defence Ministry helicopters, as announced by Habib Ghofran, spokesperson for the Information and Culture Ministry.
The event is scheduled for Friday and aims to “shower the city” with vibrant blooms, coinciding with sports performances from local Afghan athletes throughout the afternoon and early evening. This festive occasion comes amidst dire challenges facing Afghanistan, including a massive influx of refugees, a weakening economy, and reduced foreign funding, particularly from the United States.
Nearly 10 million people in Afghanistan are currently facing acute food insecurity, with one in three children suffering from stunting due to malnutrition. The stark realities of life in Afghanistan contrast sharply with the celebratory intentions of the Taliban, who have displayed black and white flags across Kabul in anticipation of the anniversary.
“Along with peace, we need employment and education opportunities. If these problems are solved, then Afghanistan is the best country to live in,”
said Kabul resident Zafar Momand, highlighting the urgent need for socio-economic improvements. Women in Afghanistan remain particularly vulnerable, facing restrictions on education beyond the sixth grade and limited access to many public spaces and job opportunities.
UNESCO’s Director-General Audrey Azoulay emphasized the severity of the situation, stating, “Nearly 2.2 million girls are now barred from attending school beyond primary level due to this regressive decision.” The exclusion of women from public life poses disastrous consequences for the nation’s long-term development, especially as half the population already lives below the poverty line.
While the Taliban encourages the Afghan diaspora to return and witness the alleged peace and happiness in the country, many, including women, remain skeptical about their rights and opportunities in this new regime. Last year’s anniversary event took place at Bagram Airfield, where women, including female journalists, were barred from participation.
The planned flower drop serves as a stark reminder of the dualities present in Afghanistan today: a celebration of power juxtaposed with the urgent need for humanitarian support and socio-economic stability. As the world watches, all eyes will be on Kabul this Friday to see how the Taliban’s grand displays play out against the backdrop of ongoing crises.
What remains to be seen is whether women will be allowed to participate in the festivities, as the regime’s policies continue to restrict their freedoms. The international community remains concerned about the implications of these celebrations amidst the severe challenges facing the Afghan population.
